If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug and a little indulgence all rolled into one, this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer swirled with rich caramel sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy goodness. These bars are not only irresistibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making them a favorite for any occasion or just a cozy treat at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, classic ingredients come together to create this mouthwatering dessert. Each one plays a crucial role, like the graham cracker crumbs providing a crunchy foundation, while cream cheese lends that silky, creamy texture we all love. Let’s dive into the essentials:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms a crunchy, buttery base with a subtle sweetness that complements the caramel.
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together and adds a rich, creamy depth.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that creates the creamy cheesecake layer with a smooth texture.
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling without overpowering the caramel’s richness.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Helps set the cheesecake and adds a lovely structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.
- 0.5 cup sour cream: Adds brightness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 0.75 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling: Brings that luscious, buttery caramel flavor that makes these bars unforgettable.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors and keep your taste buds dancing.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper—this makes removing the bars later a breeze. Next, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture feels like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom. Bake for about 10 minutes until fragrant and set. This initial baking ensures a crisp, buttery base that will hold up under the creamy cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools slightly, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is silky smooth and has no lumps. Then, add the eggs one by one, blending gently after each addition—this helps keep the filling velvety without overworking it. Stir in the vanilla, sour cream, caramel sauce, and salt until everything is perfectly combined, ready to spread over the crust.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over your baked crust and gently spread it out to an even layer. Pop it into the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, baking until the center looks mostly set but still has a slight jiggle—it will firm up as it cools. This baking time is key to achieving that perfect creamy texture that isn’t overly dense or dry.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then chill the bars in the fridge for at least 3 hours—or better yet, overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up so you can slice cleanly.
Step 5: Add a Caramel Finish
Right before serving, generously drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for that irresistible glossy finish and a little extra indulgence in every bite. Now your caramel cheesecake bars are ready to wow your taste buds!
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Bring your Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe to the next level with simple yet elegant garnishes. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt complements the caramel’s sweetness, while a few toasted pecans or chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also make a stunning finish, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a handful of raspberries, whose tartness contrasts the rich caramel and creamy cheesecake. For those looking for a warm drink, a cup of coffee or chai tea enhances the indulgent experience, perfectly balancing the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter with little forks for a party-friendly presentation. Alternatively, layer crumbled bars in a glass parfait with whipped cream and caramel drizzle for an elegant, layered dessert. Presentation is your playground with this versatile Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars keep wonderfully in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to four days, making it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the craving strikes. Just remember that chilling tightens the cheesecake and caramel, enhancing flavors even more.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best experience, these bars are typically enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly warm treat, allow them to come to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, or you risk melting the caramel and changing the texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought caramel sauce is a convenient and delicious shortcut that works perfectly in this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Just choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt or crème fraîche makes a great substitute. Both provide the tang and creaminess needed without changing the overall taste.
How do I get clean slices when cutting the bars?
For neat slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. You can also warm the blade slightly by running it under hot water and drying it before cutting.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This recipe as written is not gluten-free because of the graham cracker crust. However, you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers or cookies to make a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
Can I double the recipe and bake in a larger pan?
You can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, just be sure to adjust baking times accordingly. The depth of the bars may change, so keep an eye on the center for doneness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how simple ingredients transform into a dessert that’s creamy, rich, and loaded with caramel goodness. This Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a wonderful treat that’s sure to become a favorite for family, friends, or simply to indulge yourself. I can’t wait for you to try making these bars—they’re the perfect way to brighten any day with a little homemade sweetness!
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Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour plus 3 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, rich caramel-infused cheesecake filling. Baked to perfection and drizzled with extra caramel sauce, they make a decadent and irresistible dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.75 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 0.75 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated to avoid overmixing. Then stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, caramel sauce, and salt until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the pre-baked crust, spreading it gently to cover the crust fully. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to allow them to firm up properly before cutting.
- Serve: Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 16 bars. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over each bar before serving. For cleaner slices, wipe your knife between cuts.
Notes
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between each cut to prevent sticking.
- These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother filling texture.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the center creamy and slightly jiggly.
